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Whenever you visit South Carolina, expect to find a land steeped in history -- but also one with plenty of opportunities to get back to nature. The state has its share of Civil War-era relics, but it's also known for its fragrant flowers and idyllic mountain getaways. While there are some definite high seasons in South Carolina, the "best" time of year to visit may depend on what activities you plan on doing and whether you're willing to battle the crowds.

Touring in Fall

If your ideal vacation involves touring the Antebellum mansions of Charleston and sipping sweet tea on a picturesque veranda, then fall may be the ideal time for you. Temperatures in September and October will be relatively mild, meaning you won't have to sweat through your tours. While you may experience a rain shower, the rains will start to subside by October. School will also be back in session, meaning the tourists with families will be gone and you'll have a better pick of accommodations. If you're a fan of seeing the bright colors of changing leaves, fall is also a great time to visit upstate, in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Spring on the Links

Late spring and early summer are the time when South Carolina's flora and fauna come alive, making it an ideal time to stop and smell the flowers and enjoy the outdoor activities -- without the threat of extreme heat. April and May will be ideal for golfers, hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the water parks and other attractions won't open until May -- but if you get there during that month, you can expect to pay lower prices than you'll pay when school is out and the summer tourists start coming in droves.

Typical Weather

South Carolina in

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The temperature in South Carolina in March tends to be very predictable, so you can generally count on the forecast and travel light.

The temperature in South Carolina in March is somewhat unpredictable, so be on the safe side and prepare for a variety of conditions.

The temperature in South Carolina in March is highly unpredictable, so use the forecast as a guide, but be ready for anything!

Beat the Crowds in Winter

If the thought of crowds and heat fill you with dread, then winter is going to be your ideal time to visit. For people who live in colder climates, the Lowcountry and beach locations will feel pretty mild -- though you may see quite a bit of rain. Some attractions will be closed during this time, but unless your desired activities involve swimming or amusement park rides, you'll be able to visit most attractions during the winter months. Winter is going to be the least expensive time to visit as well, making it ideal for the budget-conscious traveler. One exception, though: Christmas and New Year's are usually busy times, and prices may rise accordingly.

Beaches in Summer

If your idea of a great vacation is sitting on a warm beach and soaking up the sun, then summertime is your ideal time of year. Granted, the heat can be sweltering in South Carolina come late June through the end of summer -- and the humidity can be difficult to bear. Add in the crowds that flock to the beaches for Memorial Day and the 4th of July and this may be the worst time of year, depending on how you look at it. In the upcountry, however, the temperatures will be a little more bearable, allowing you to try rafting on the Chattooga River or touring some of the many waterfalls in the area.

References

About the Author

Nicole Vulcan has been a journalist since 1997, covering parenting and fitness for The Oregonian, careers for CareerAddict, and travel, gardening and fitness for Black Hills Woman and other publications. Vulcan holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and journalism from the University of Minnesota. She's also a lifelong athlete and is pursuing certification as a personal trainer.

Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.

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Vulcan, Nicole. "The Best Time of Year to Travel to South Carolina." Travel Tips - USA Today, http://traveltips.usatoday.com/time-year-travel-south-carolina-110266.html. Accessed 18 March 2018.

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